Episode 72: The Moment Others Noticed

I didn’t think anything changed.

It didn’t feel different.

But apparently—

It was obvious.

We’re at another quiet family dinner.

Lowkey. Controlled. Acceptable.

Diana stands beside me.

As usual.

Her hand rests briefly on my shoulder.

As usual.

“…You two are ridiculous,” Lina says suddenly.

I pause.

“…Explain.”

“…You’re already together,” Mira adds.

“…We are not.”

Silence.

Diana doesn’t speak.

That’s concerning.

“…Beckett,” Lina says slowly,
“…you follow everything she says.”

“…Not everything.”

Diana tilts my chin slightly.

“…Stay still,” she murmurs.

I do.

Immediately.

Silence.

“…That,” Mira says flatly.

“…Is structure,” I reply.

“…That’s a relationship,” Lina counters.

Pause.

I look at Diana.

“…Is it?” I ask quietly.

She studies me.

Carefully.

Then—

“…It could be,” she says.

Silence.

“…Accepted,” I reply.

And just like that—

It becomes real.